Energy efficiency and renewable energy (EE/RE) provide multiple benefits to low-income communities, including cost savings, job creation, improved air quality, and healthier homes. EPA offers the informational resources below to help state and local energy, environmental, housing, and social services agencies, non-profits, and utilities understand successful models that they can use to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by bringing EE/RE to low-income communities.

Case Studies and Program Profiles

EPA is developing a series of case studies and program profiles to highlight effective efforts by state and local agencies, non-profits, and utilities to bring energy efficiency and renewable energy to low-income communities. EPA selected programs for inclusion based on their demonstrated ability to achieve results through on-the-ground implementation and their potential to be scalable, replicable, and sustainable, and to highlight a diverse range of communities (geography, size) and types of EE/RE programs. More case studies and profiles will be added here over the coming months.

Case studies dig deeper to focus on information that can help other organizations replicate successful programs. Case studies provide more detail and include additional sections covering keys to success and tips for replication and sustainability.

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Low-Income Communities: a Guide to EPA Programs

This guide helps state and local staff connect with EPA initiatives that can assist them in expanding or developing their own EE/RE and climate initiatives in ways that benefit low-income communities.

The guide can also be used by low-income community leaders and stakeholder groups to better understand the benefits of participating in EPA initiatives to help community members save energy costs, improve the health and safety of their homes, and protect the environment.